Hi guys

Can anyone give me advice as to which is the most highly regarded qualification for pet dog trainers?  I have looked at the APDT and their basic course is fully booked for this year, and have looked at the BIPTD but I've read this to be just for trainers of working dogs.  What would you suggest? 

I think there are quite a few optios around. I have no idea but thouught the BIPTD was general traning and offererd a range of different levels.

Here is one option to study local to me, there will be a few centres like this dotted around.

http://www.iabtc.co.uk/IABTC/correspondence-courses.htm#IABTC%20Advanced%20Clicker%20&%20Target%20Training

Some colleges run courses with the differing levels of animal care related qualifications.

Most trainers don't have official qualifications ( but fair enough as most trainers instruct voluntarily and they tend to have wide ranging experience before becomming involved  ) but even so any training and qualifications would be an advantage. If anyone wants to step in and replace me I wouldn't complain. lol. Funny how one ends up doing things simply because no one else will. lol.

Yup I second that.  I've 'fallen' into training as their was no one else around to instruct certain levels at our local club.

BIPDT do 'normal' and working courses but they are pretty expensive.  I looked at one of their courses which was £600 I think (residential) to become a trainer, or you can become a member by submitting your proposal and them agreeing it but it looked like you needed far more experience than I have (4 years teaching + doing some one-to-one stuff locally).

The Kennel Club do a Trainers Accreditation that might be worth looking at.

Thanks for your advice, will take a look at those.